Mt. Hapunang Banoi Day Hike Travel Guide

Rizal province is rich in mountain ranges, waterfalls and hiking destinations. In fact, in Rodriguez, Rizal, a first class municipality is considered as one of the favorite hiking spots for adventure seekers. You can do twin hike, trilogy, quad or just one mountain on a day hike.

One of which is Mt. Hapunang Banoi, the second highest mountain in Rodriguez, Rizal. It is famous for its naturally beautiful rock and limestone formations perfectly fused with the thick forest of numerous green species of trees and plants. Its location boasts the picturesque views of Sierra Madre. Mt. Hapunang Banoi stands at 517masl with 4/9 difficulty and requires 2 – 3 hours to reach the summit.

Mt. Hapunang Banoi is the “elder sibling” of Mt. Pamitinan and Mt. Binacayan with much higher difficulty, elevation and hiking duration. The trail to Mt. Pamitinan is the same with Banoi passing through the rock climbing walls until you reach the junction to turn left (turn right is to Pamitinan). There are bamboo stands along the rocky trails. One good spot is the viewdeck where you can get a breathtaking viewpoint.

Continuing the trail, you’ll pass by the rocky and sharp limestone, another perfect vantage spot.

A few more minutes, the summit of Mt. Hapunang Banoi is within your grasp. There are minimal flat surfaces around so scaling would be more challenging. The rocks could be piercing, you might want to wear your gloves at times, but it’s all worth it when you get on top. Absolutely incredible sceneries!

If you are lucky, you’ll get to see the sea of clouds spreading out nearby.

Typically, Mt. Hapunang Banoi can be climbed with either Mt. Pamitinan or Mt. Binacayan making up for a twin hike. If you are up for this, you can ask your tour guide accordingly before the hike so they can recommend the sequential hike. Additional fee will be collected. Tour guide fee starts at Php500 for 5:1 ratio. There is also an entrance fee of Php20 and Php50 successively.

Things To Consider

• Best time to start your hike is before sunrise like 4am
• Bring enough water
• Wear appropriate hiking shoes or sandals
• Bring gloves, raincoat and skin protector (sleeves)
• Overnight camping is not allowed
• Do not litter. Always bring your trash with you.

How To Get There

By Public Transportation

• From Cubao, ride a jeep/van going to Montalban, Rizal. Tell the driver to drop you off at Eastwood, Rodriguez, Rizal.
• From Eastwood, ride a tricycle or jeep to Brgy. Wawa
• Register at DENR station / barangay hall